There are so many of us that possess that wonderful love for animals, they are so like family. "Gretch" has been a little under the weather, and it is like having a child that is ill. They can't always tell us what is hurting anymore than an child, yet we know something just ain't right.
Then there are those that see the animals as a possession, not a loving part of their life. More often than not, they cannot see how wonderful the experience of unconditional love can be. Too often the animals are ignored, and it is hurtful to be ignored even if it is an animal.
Many see animal advocates as silly; many of us see them as, well, -- never mind ... (the Courier wouldn't print it anyway). The elements around us are within us, like it or not. It should be observed that it is so sad to destroy that what the Lord has created. And it is illegal, as well!
On the subject of human/animal relationships I have a request to reiterate the story about the bond between my mother and her dog, "Polly-Esther":
"We were poor dirt farmers -- born into poverty and remained there for many years. My folks were hard workers -- Daddy worked at the shoe factory 18 miles away from the old farm that Momma plowed and farmed the land. I remember that her dream was to one day save enough money to buy some matching living room furniture. All she had ever owned was mismatched junk, but sturdy and usable. She saved for more than several years loose change and occasionally a dollar or two and kept the money in a jar that we referred to as a dream jar. We sometimes had to hit the dream jar when something came up, believing we would soon replace it (that rarely happened.) It took a long time to get the money to buy the furniture she wanted. Just the thought that the day was becoming a reality was a time of excitement. One day Daddy had gone to work and Mamma was plowing the west 40 and "Polly-Esther," who was always near Mamma, came too close to the plow and was severely injured by the plow. It was very cool that day, but Mamma pulled off her jacket and bound the dog closely to her and ran all the way to the house. She took off in the old truck toward the vets in Hannibal (18 miles away). The vet informed her he could euthanize the animal for $5, but surgery would cost around $250. That was a lot of money, but that old Mamma said 'Fix 'er up Doc, I got the money.' Later she said she didn't need matching furniture, especially if she had to give up her dog. You know she never did get a living room set, but she had a companion that protected her wherever she went. She always slept beneath Mamma's bedroom window every night."
Nice story and a true story. They don't make many people like that anymore.
As Jazz would say: "Our children are like mirrors -- they reflect our attitudes in life!"
Thought for the week: "Reputation is made in a moment: character is built in a lifetime."
Many thanks to the wonderful donors that sent donations this week, and last, God will bless you Marge Hale and Rick Johnson. We are going forward and by the end of the month we will have a good news board meeting. True faith and courage are like a kite -- an opposing wind raises it higher.